Australia "concerned" by China’s land reclamation in South China Sea: @kevinandrewsmp #SLD15 ht…

SINGAPORE: Australian Defence Minister Kevin Andrews on Suinday (May 31) said Canberra is concerned by China's reported build-up of military assets on reclaimed land in the South China Sea. Speaking to regional defence representatives at the Shangri-La Dialogue, Mr Andrews said "underlying tensions are likely to remain in the near-term strategic environment" but urged claimant states in the territorial dispute to exercise caution. "Australia urges all parties to exercise restraint, halt reclamation activities, halt provocative actions," he said. "We are particularly concerned by the prospect of the militarisation of artificial structures. Disputes must be resolved peacefully." Mr Andrews reiterated Australia's opposition to any attempt to "change the status quo" in the South China Sea or any moves that raised regional tension. He said he was encouraged by the level of inte...